Decorative throws have become a staple in home decorating ensembles as well as serving a function as a quick cover in a chilly room.

Throws are featured in the home décor aisles at department stores for use with bedroom linens or as a complement to pillows in a den or family room.

"Oftentimes we take for granted their colors, textures and intricate patterns and focus more on their function, especially during the winter," writes interior designer Erika Ward on Houzz.com. "While you may not need them for warmth in the upcoming months, they can definitely serve an alternative function as room decor."

She suggests placing a throw over the back of a chair or a headboard, often for contrast in colors as well as textures.

From grandmother's crocheted afghan to contemporary weaves, a throw can add a splash of color to neutral shades in sofas and chairs. Quilted throws are particularly good to create a focal point in a room either on furnishings or hung on a wall.

For a window treatment that plays up the colors and design of a throw, fabric roller shades are a good choice. They are affordable, and can bring a customized look to a room.